Dallas Bathroom Remodeling – A Step By Step Guide

Remodeling A Bathroom In Dallas, TX

Remodeling a bathroom can be an exciting but complex process.

Whether updating an outdated design or creating a spa-like retreat, following the correct order is essential to ensuring efficiency, preventing costly mistakes, and achieving a flawless finish.

We’ve put together a comprehensive step-by-step guide based on a recently completed master bathroom remodel in Dallas, TX, so you can get insight into the proper order of things.

Before starting any physical work, establish a clear vision and budget for your project. Consider:

🔆 Layout & Functionality: Will you keep the existing layout, or are you reconfiguring plumbing and fixtures?

🔆 Style & Materials: Choose tiles, vanities, lighting, and colors that fit your aesthetic. Home Depot is also a convenient go-to for all your bathroom remodeling needs.

🔆 Permits & Regulations: Some remodels require permits, especially if moving plumbing or electrical. Check with your contractor and insist they pull the permit if needed – NOT YOU.

🔆 Hiring Professionals: If you cannot do this yourself, don’t! Hire a legitimate bathroom remodeling company with a solid reputation.

Pro Tip: Don’t go into your project blind—get a rendering from your contractor like this one so you’re both clear on the plan.

Step 2: Prep

Be sure to hire someone who values and cares about your property and belongings enough to protect them. Floors, furniture, and electronics are susceptible to dust and construction debris. Have them use any or all of these:

➡️ Construction paper – Great for walkways like hallways and areas that require prolonged foot traffic to reach the site.

➡️ RAM board – Heavy duty used in commercial construction that is handy when working with softer materials like marble.

➡️ Plastic coverings – Ideal for wrapping appliances, beds, and personal belongings.

➡️ Zipper doors – This is to seal off two areas completely from the other. Useful when painting or grinding floors.

Step 3: Demolition

Once the plan is in place, it’s time to strip the existing bathroom.

✅ Remove old tiles, flooring, vanity, toilet, and shower/tub.

✅ Carefully disconnect and cap off plumbing lines.

✅ If necessary, remove drywall to access electrical and plumbing systems.

Pro Tip: Now is the time to inspect behind your walls and determine if anything needs to be replaced due to water damage, termites, etc. You’d be surprised to learn what we’ve found behind walls over the years!

Step 4: Plumbing Rough-In

This step is crucial if you’re relocating fixtures or upgrading pipes.

✅ Install new plumbing lines for the shower (and rough-in valves), tub, toilet, and sinks. Buy highly reliable faucets, fixtures, etc. like Moen.

✅ Ensure proper drainage slopes and venting to avoid future plumbing issues.

✅ Pressure-test pipes to check for leaks before closing walls.

Pro Tip: If switching to a walk-in shower, consider adding a linear drain for a sleek look.

Step 5: Electrical Rough-In

Now, it’s time to tackle the electrical work.

✅ Install or upgrade wiring for lighting, outlets, and exhaust fans.

✅ Add GFCI outlets for safety in wet areas.

✅ Plan for modern amenities like LED mirrors, smart switches, and heated flooring.

Reminder: Code compliance is essential. Consider hiring a licensed electrician.

If you’re making structural changes (e.g., adding niches in the shower or moving walls), this is when framing occurs.

✅ Frame new walls, shower curbs, or built-in storage.

✅ Install cement board in wet areas to prevent moisture damage.

✅ Hang drywall on non-wet walls and apply joint compound.

Pro Tip: Use green board or mold-resistant drywall in humid areas.

Waterproofing is key to longevity, especially in the shower area.

✅ Apply a waterproof membrane (like RedGard) over cement board.

✅ Use a proper shower pan liner or install a pre-sloped base.

✅ Seal corners and seams to prevent future leaks.

✅ Put the shower pan under a water test to ensure it’s leak-free.

Did You Know? Waterproofing failures are one of the most common causes of bathroom remodel issues. We take additional waterproofing precautions to ensure your shower never leaks.

Step 8: Flooring Installation

Now, the space is ready for the first finishing touch—new flooring.

✅ Popular choices: Porcelain tile, natural stone, LVP (luxury vinyl plank).

✅ Ensure a level subfloor before tiling.

✅ Use epoxy grout for extra durability in wet areas.

Pro Tip: As seen here, heated flooring is a great addition!

Step 9: Wall Finishes & Painting

With the floors in place, move on to the walls.

✅ Apply primer and mold-resistant paint.

✅ Install wall tiles in the shower and around the vanity.

✅ Add decorative elements like wainscoting or wallpaper for extra character.

Reminder: Wait for the paint to fully dry before moving to the next step.

Step 10: Fixture Installation (Plumbing & Electrical Final)

Now, it’s time to bring the bathroom to life by installing the main fixtures.

✅ Install the toilet, sink, vanity, and faucet.

✅ Hook up showerheads, tubs, and drains.

✅ Install the exhaust fan, lighting, and outlets.

Pro Tip: Test all plumbing connections before sealing gaps with caulk.

Step 11: Mirrors, Accessories & Final Touches

This is where the bathroom takes its final form.

✅ Mount the mirror, towel bars, and shelving.

✅ Apply caulking around tubs, sinks, and toilets.

✅ Install glass shower doors (if applicable).

✅ Give everything a final deep clean.

Before calling the project complete:

✅ Check for leaks and test drainage.

✅ Ensure proper ventilation and exhaust fan operation.

✅ Verify grout, caulk, and paint are clean and even.

✅ Address any last-minute touch-ups.

Final Thoughts

A bathroom remodel requires careful planning and execution. Following these steps ensures a smooth renovation with fewer delays, reworks, and costly mistakes. Whether hiring professionals or tackling a DIY remodel, staying organized will help bring your dream bathroom to life with lasting beauty and functionality.

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